About the statement:

Mr. Salam Abukarnib, Member of the Board of Directors of the UAHR, delivered an oral statement during the 56th session of the Human Rights Council, as part of the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions. The statement addressed deaths in detention as a neglected global human rights issue and emphasized the need to reform correctional institutions and guarantee the rights of detainees to life and care. It also highlighted the UAE’s experience in modernizing its correctional system and securing high international accreditation for its facilities.

Content of the Statement:

• The speaker praised the efforts of the Human Rights Council and the Special Rapporteur in protecting and promoting the right to life, particularly in cases of deaths in custody.
• It was emphasized that:
  • Deaths in prisons represent a global, overlooked tragedy that is often met with silence.
  • Of the 12 million people incarcerated globally, one-third have not been convicted yet.
  • There is a lack of accurate international data on deaths in custody.
  • Mortality rates in prisons are 50% higher than those outside.
  • Studies covering 2014–2023 demonstrated that most deaths were preventable.
• The speaker called on States to:
  • Reform their penal systems in line with international standards.
  • Ensure oversight and accountability in cases of custodial deaths.
• Commended the experience of the United Arab Emirates, noting:
  • Amendments to prison laws transforming them into institutions for rehabilitation and correction.
  • Dubai prisons being accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA).
  • Rankings:
    • Men’s prisons: 1st regionally, 5th globally.
    • Women’s prisons: 1st globally in terms of international standards compliance.

Importance of the Statement:

• Highlighting a silenced global issue: The statement spotlighted deaths in prisons as a silent tragedy needing urgent international attention.
• Calling for accountability and institutional reform: It urged member states to reform legislation and oversight mechanisms for detention centers.
• Promoting the UAE’s criminal justice model: The speaker showcased the UAE’s efforts in transforming prisons into rehabilitative and humane environments, with internationally recognized achievements.
• Linking the right to life with detention conditions: It stressed that safeguarding life begins with protecting the dignity and well-being of detainees—not merely avoiding executions.